A wholesome, relatable and rather idyllic album, ‘The Wood’ carries a particular connection with nature, as its title eloquently implies. Written by Australian singer-songwriter Amanda Emblem, the record is the natural landing spot of an artistic journey that’s often flourished on the fringe, in deep harmony with its author’s fierce and community-driven ethos. Usually found working her farm land and feeding “spray-free veggies” to her locals, Amanda felt the need to take a break from the hustle of rural life.
Taking a trip to the Great Sandy Strait with her partner and a couple of friends, Emblem found creativity and inspiration in a solitary, secluded environment, a place where she was able to connect with nature while reflecting on the chaotic quality of our modern world. In a way, ‘The Wood’ is pure escapism, yet not the aural kind – the lyrical kind. Built on soothing folk and country tones, the record sees the Australian songstress delivering bucolic and nostalgic theming, all wrapped in gentle acoustic guitars and the occasional distortion. Harmonica, backing vocals, and light percussion complete the sonic picture.
Delving deeper into the album, Emblem explains: “‘The Wood’ was initially inspired by the pine kitchen table it was written at, but it has a much deeper underlying theme on further inspection. It is musically a product of the beautiful instrument it was written on, my White Cedar Guitar, which was handmade using the wood from our farm, which was struck by lightning and crafted by local luthier Karl Venz.”
Recommended! Discover ‘The Wood’ on Spotify:
